disciplinary field of automated scientific discovery is receiving more attention as the number and accessibility of large databases—e.g., the human genome—increases (Darden, 1997). And theorem-proving software is now commercially available (www.transpowercorp.com). Less restricted to the analysis of what has been, we may effectively create what has never been— drawing rather more on the creative experience of the artist than on the analytical skills of the scientist.

Of all the research-university roles examined in this chapter, research would appear to be the one that institutions are best prepared to adapt to new realities. Indeed, federally funded university research has played a critically important role in creating and nurturing the very technologies discussed here (National Research Council, 1999). But while the research university may face relatively greater information-technology challenges in teaching, outreach, and management than in research, the research-related challenges are not trivial. Maintaining the federal-government/university partnership as a driver in the pursuit of fundamental knowledge and as an engine of U.S. and global innovation will require strong commitment from both partners. New modes of cooperation across agencies, institutions, and departments may be needed to fund and effectively utilize the cyber-infrastructure that will enable tomorrow’s breakthroughs.

Engaging industry as a partner in research is also an issue. As discussed below, the university research enterprise has become more focused on commercialization and the launch of new ventures than in years past. The new thinking about information technology occurring in the university environment could be an additional magnet for industry interest.

These and other issues have global implications. Given the intensely international nature of today’s research, with growing collaboration across distance enabled by information technology, the way that the U.S. research university harnesses new technology in the service of science and engineering is critical not only at home. It is bound to affect scholars and institutions around the world.